COLDWATER, MI (WTVB) – The property where the Tibbits Opera House “Scene Shop” on Division Street got some much-needed excavation improvements this past week as Parrish Excavation of Quincy completed the installation of a leach basin and a new gravel driveway.
The work took two days and alleviates a long-standing problem of poor drainage. With the grade of the entire property going toward the building, snow and rain routinely flooded the building.
Between the standing water and the freezing and thawing there were times when it was unsafe.
The project originally was planned for the spring but was delayed due to the state mandated COVID-19 shutdown.
The building is used for the storing of scenery and props and is used as a workspace for building sets.
Coldwater Community Theatre, Coldwater High School and Tibbits Young Audiences use a great deal of the scenery for their shows and the Coldwater Rotary Club stores the risers and sets for its annual show.
The space would normally be abuzz with activity throughout the summer but the theatre’s revised schedule all but eliminated the set building for this year.
Partial funding for the project came from Coldwater Rotary Club and a local donor. Those wishing to contribute to the project fund can call (517) 278-6029. Online donations can also be made at Tibbits.org with “Scene Shop” in the description.
